Question

Many plant and animal species are on the verge of their extinction because of loss of forest land by indiscriminate use by the humans. As a biology student what method would you suggest along with its advantages that can protect such threatened species from getting extinct?

Answer 1

As a biology student, I would suggest the below given method that can protect these threatened species from becoming extinct:

• Ex situ conservation- The threatened species of plants and animals are taken out of their habitats and are kept in special settings such as zoological parks, botanical gardens and wildlife parks.

Nowadays, the gametes of endangered species can be preserved by methods such as cryopreservation and can be fertilised in vitro, followed by propagation through tissue culture methods. Similarly, seeds can be preserved in seed banks.

This method is an off-site conservation method.

Answer 2

As a biology student, I would suggest two primary methods to protect threatened plant and animal species from extinction caused by habitat loss and human activities:

1. In Situ Conservation: This involves protecting species within their natural habitats. It includes establishing protected areas such as biosphere reserves, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and other protected natural reserves.
2. Ex Situ Conservation: This involves conserving species outside their natural habitats, such as in botanical gardens, zoos, gene banks, seed banks, tissue culture repositories, and cryopreservation facilities.

By combining both in situ and ex situ conservation methods, we can effectively reduce the risk of extinction of threatened species, preserve biodiversity, and maintain ecosystem balance.